Sharon Haver - FocusOnStyle.comStyle Expert and Online Business Personal Brand Success Strategist for fellow women entrepreneurs, Sharon Haver shares expert fashion, business and lifestyle tips to step into your STAR Power. The FocusOnStyle fashion blog was founded in 1999, and includes the 7 Days to Amazing Podcast, and Quick Tips how to video series.

Flirty, romantic and ultra-feminine, pleated a-line knee-length skirts are guaranteed to elicit an ode to old-school starlet style glamour, but that’s not exactly what this season’s top Spring 2012 is about, per se.

Take a look at actress Emmy Rossum’s play on the trend in a bordeaux Sonia Rykiel skirt while out and about on the streets channeling an easy grace in a modern, streetstyle friendly outfit to boot.

If you have a bit of a belly, opt for pleats that start below your hipbone to create the illusion of a flatter stomach

There’s a natural breeziness to a full-pleated skirt (think Marilyn Monroe) so opt for knee-length styles that look alluring rather than vulgar when the wind hits

Add a bit of interest to your footwear, like Emmy’s lacing, to keep the look flirty

Besides the matchy bag (leave it at home girls!), Rossum made a smart move by pairing her skirt with lace-up ghillie ankle wrap ballet inspired shoes and a tie-neck blouse that highlighted her skirts high-waist. Try the flat option, pictured right, for a more casual feel.

Here, her reality minded adds-on’s make for a do as they remain neutral enough to ground her trend piece with a more urbane ease while forgoing an overtly retro vibe. Take a cue from the star and pair your pleated skirts with luxe, grown-up classics that have an elegant appeal to them.— Naveed Hussain

Photo: Sonia Rykiel

About Naveed Hussain

Naveed Hussain, stylist and fashion editor, has a BA in art history and extensive knowledge in the history of fashion and social media outreach. Naveed also covers fashion, music and art and was assistant to the owner & editor at VagabondNyc, where he also contributed to FocusOnStyle. Naveed has unlimited access to current and future fashion news & trends. He has worked as a buyer and has styled for The Dallas Morning News, The Chicago Tribune, and The New York Times.